The independent presidential campaign of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his skepticism of vaccines, initially claimed in an email that rioters charged in connection with the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack were being deprived of their constitutional rights. However, the campaign later retracted the statement, attributing it to an error made by a new marketing contractor. The press secretary clarified that the campaign believes those who broke the law on Jan. 6 should face appropriate penalties. The campaign also severed ties with the contractor responsible for the mistake.
The email also highlighted the situation of Julian Assange, describing him as a political prisoner facing extradition to the U.S. for violating the Espionage Act. The campaign urged supporters to sign a petition calling for the charges against Assange to be dropped. The email drew parallels between Assange, Edward Snowden, and the Jan. 6 detainees, portraying them as individuals stripped of their constitutional rights.
This stance aligns the candidate with former President Donald J. Trump and others on the right who view the rioters as martyrs. Kennedy has made controversial statements, including suggesting that President Biden poses a greater threat to American democracy than Trump. He has also expressed sympathy for those who believe the election was stolen, drawing criticism for promoting conspiracy theories and misinformation.
Kennedy has indicated that he would consider pardoning individuals convicted in connection with the Capitol attack if prosecutorial misconduct is proven. The campaign’s comparison of Assange, Snowden, and the Jan. 6 rioters has raised eyebrows, especially in light of the ongoing legal proceedings related to the attack. Over 1,250 individuals have been charged, with hundreds already convicted, but only a small number remain in pretrial detention.
The Kennedy campaign’s controversial statements and positions underscore the candidate’s willingness to challenge conventional norms and align with divisive figures and causes. This approach has drawn both support and criticism, highlighting the polarizing nature of Kennedy’s campaign.
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